The operation is called a "Carpal Tunnel Release”. It is a relatively minor operation and can be done on an outpatient basis. The basic steps are as follows: ·

• Step 1: A Small incision less than 2 inches is made at the base of the palm of the hand.

• Step 2: An incision is made through the structure called the Palmar Fascia. It rests under the base of the skin. Taking full note as to where the Median nerve is to prevent damage it is gently moved out of the way by the surgeon.

• Step 3: Once the Median Nerve is out of the way a cut with a scalpel is done on the Transverse Carpal Ligament. Once the Transverse Carpal Ligament is cut the pressure on the Median Nerve is terminated.

• Step 4: Once the Median Nerve is checked to be satisfactory the skin incision is sutured.

The Transverse Carpal Ligament is not sutured. It remains open. The gap in the Transverse Carpal Ligament will slowly over time refill in with scar tissue. After Surgery, most patients will have some use of their hands. Most patients are able to fully use their hands within Six to Ten weeks of the Surgery and are able to resume normal lives free of pain, as long as they do not go back to putting a great deal of stress on their wrists again.